YAMAMOTO Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin found in many foods; it occurs naturally in eight chemical forms, which are divided into two main categories: tocopherols (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta) and tocotrienols (alpha, beta, gamma, and delta), of which alpha-tocopherol is the form synthesized by the human body.

It is the most potent of the fat-soluble vitamins, and its antioxidant action protects the polyunsaturated fatty acids in phospholipids and plasma lipoproteins, preventing damage to cell membranes. This important vitamin is absorbed by the intestinal mucosa, thanks in part to the presence of dietary fats, and its presence in the intestine also promotes the absorption of other vitamins, such as vitamin A, vitamin C, and those of the B group. Vitamin E deteriorates very easily and is highly sensitive to cooking, as heat significantly reduces its concentration. In the "modern" diet, highly refined products are depleted of vitamin E, so it is always best to choose foods that are preferably in season and/or organically grown.

This deficiency, which can result from individual imbalances or the increasingly low levels of micronutrients in many of the foods we find at the supermarket, can lead to a genuine deficiency that may cause a variety of related problems, as vitamin E is involved in various physiological processes in our body. In our body, vitamin E acts primarily as a powerful antioxidant, protecting us against damage caused by free radicals and food toxins, pollution, and UV rays, which can damage cell membranes composed of fatty acids and promote the onset of degenerative diseases. This vitamin thus counteracts the effects of cellular aging, and its antioxidant power protects vision from age-related damage, particularly from macular degeneration of the retina (common in older adults) and the formation of cataracts, where oxidative stress is believed to play a significant role.

For this reason, studies have shown that supplementation with this substance is highly effective in preventing macular degeneration. It also has anti-inflammatory properties and helps boost the immune system, which helps prevent the formation of nitrosamines (carcinogens that form in the stomach from nitrites present in food).

Several very interesting studies have shown that vitamin E has protective properties for the cardiovascular system, where it appears to play a role in inhibiting the oxidation of "bad" and may help prevent atherosclerosis by inhibiting platelet aggregation and thus the formation of blood clots, while also acting as an effective vasodilator (making it suitable for individuals with hypertension).

Recent findings have shown that vitamin E exerts a neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress, slowing cognitive decline and preventing the onset of degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Its benefits for the skin are particularly significant, which is why it is also used in dermocosmetic creams—specifically in anti-wrinkle, moisturizing, and soothing products for irritated, dry, reddened, and dehydrated skin. The antioxidant action of vitamin E nourishes and protects the skin from free radicals, which are the main culprits behind skin aging and cellular damage, and also prevents damage from excessive UV exposure.

It has long been commonly used in both gynecology and male infertility treatment. For women, it helps regulate the menstrual cycle and significantly reduces the risk of miscarriage. During menopause, it helps alleviate bothersome symptoms such as hot flashes and headaches. For men, its antioxidant action is particularly important, as it protects sperm by counteracting the free radicals responsible for DNA damage in sperm.